The Hour Glass

Tucked away on Liardet Street, The Hour Glass is a beloved restaurant and tapas bar that has fed and watered New Plymouth people since 2013. 

Owned by Mark and AJ, the duo wanted to create a laid-back and inviting spot for locals to keep coming back to. It’s the sort of place where the people behind the bar are bound to know your favourite tipple and be asking after the family by your second visit – which is probably why “The Tuesday Tipplers”, a group of loyal local supporters, have been coming ever since the doors first opened.

While the genuine service is enough to keep one hanging around, the food and drink offering solidifies The Hour Glass’ place amongst the neatest of New Plymouth. At the bar, crane your neck to the blackboards, populated with an endless selection of local craft beers, wine, whiskey and cocktails (the espresso martini is a fan favourite) scribbled in chalk. Your glass is in good company with a long list of tapas and sharing platters to enjoy on a cute date night or between a boisterous group of mates. Vegan or meat lover, there’s a plate for everyone inspired by worldly destinations. Not in the sharing mood? Fair enough. Take a peek at the short but sweet dinner menu – we’ve been told the eye fillet steak is the best in town.

The Hour Glass doesn’t give much away from the outside, but it’s a surprisingly big space that extends from the low-lit bar area out into a green and rustic conservatory. An eclectic mix of vintage touches marry nicely with more polished and modern features throughout, all coming together to make for a very welcoming second home. If you’re after a trifecta of great food, drinks and service, then number 49 Liardet Street is it.